Zika, which was widespread in Brazil, leading to a worrying neurological birth defect known as microcephaly, has encouraged the CDC to put out travel notices for nations that have been afflicted by the disease, especially in America. Officials also are investigating a Zika-related increase in reports of a nerve condition called Guillain-Barre (gee-YAHN'-buh-RAY) that can cause paralysis. Pregnant women have been urged not to travel to infected countries and other precautions are suggested by the CDC.

The man contracted the rare tropical disease while traveling in El Salvador, and the diagnosis was confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Colorado upon his return.

Yes. This week, health officials said almost 260 lab-confirmed Zika infections have been reported in the 50 states in the last year-a count that includes 18 pregnant women.

The primarily mosquito-borne illness - some sexually transmitted cases have also been reported - has become an epidemic in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Health officials said the Zika virus infection causes no symptoms in one out of five people.

Zika is spread though bites from a specific mosquito and is believed to carry particular risk for birth defects.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a travel alert Saturday that "mosquitoes in the area are infected with Zika virus and are spreading it to people".

"The Department of Health is doing all the measures to prevent the spread of the Zika virus and ensure the safety and health of all the people, including tourists visiting the country", said Coloma. Scientists have not yet succeeded in coming up with a vaccine or treatment for the Zika virus.

Local transmission has not been detected in the United States, the release stated, but the invasive Aedes mosquitoes that can transmit Zika virus are present in Orange County.

The majority of those who are infected with the Zika virus will not show symptoms, but for some it appears with symptoms that make it seem similar to a mild form of the flu, including fever and body aches.